NEPAL CRICKET LEVELS UP! NPL Gets ICC Recognition, DRS and Global Stars

KIRTIPUR, Nepal, October 25, 2026: Nepal’s cricket scene is preparing for a major moment as the third season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) gets underway on Monday, October 26, bringing international recognition, new technology and a star-studded overseas lineup.

The tournament will run until November 21 at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. This season, NPL matches have official T20 status recognised by the International Cricket Council (ICC), meaning player performances will count towards official T20 records.

For Nepali cricket, this is an important step towards greater international visibility.

International cricket stars arrive in Nepal

This year's lineup includes several familiar names from international and franchise cricket.

Australian batter David Warner is set to represent Kathmandu Gorkhas, while West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell joins Biratnagar Kings. South African batter David Miller will play for Karnali Yaks, and Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is among the international players signed by Pokhara Avengers.

Other experienced overseas players are also joining the eight participating franchises.

Their presence could give Nepali players opportunities to train, compete and share dressing rooms with professionals who have played in major international and franchise tournaments.

For fans, it also means a chance to watch well-known cricketers compete in Nepal.

DRS technology arrives in the NPL

One of the biggest changes this season is the introduction of the Decision Review System (DRS).

The technology allows teams to challenge certain on-field umpiring decisions, giving players a formal way to seek reviews when they believe a call may be incorrect.

According to reporting by The Kathmandu Post, the system will include ball-tracking for leg-before-wicket decisions and technology to help detect edges. Reviews will also cover situations such as run-outs, stumpings and no-balls.

DRS is expected to improve decision-making, although no review system can eliminate every error. Its introduction also adds significant costs and may extend match durations.

What does ICC recognition mean?

ICC recognition gives NPL matches official statistical standing. Performances from this season will count towards players' official T20 records, unlike the league's first two editions.

That distinction could make the competition more attractive to players, supporters and potential sponsors.

The tournament's international profile has grown since its inaugural season in 2024. The new recognition, experienced overseas signings and improved facilities represent another step in its development.

However, lasting progress will depend on the quality of the competition, effective management, financial sustainability and opportunities for Nepali talent.

Eight teams, one trophy

Eight franchises will compete in the tournament, with defending champions Lumbini Lions returning to defend their title. Sudurpaschim Royals, runners-up in the first two seasons, will also be looking to go one step further.

With international names joining Nepali players, supporters will be watching to see which teams find the right balance between overseas experience and local talent.

The competition also gives Nepal's emerging cricketers a chance to perform in front of larger audiences and learn from players with extensive experience in professional T20 cricket.

Can the NPL take Nepali cricket to the next level?

The third season arrives with higher expectations than ever. Official recognition, DRS and an international lineup give the league new opportunities, but the real test will come on the field.

Can Nepali players use this platform to improve their game? Will the international stars deliver memorable performances? And which franchise will lift the trophy on November 21?

The countdown is almost over. Nepal's cricket festival is back, and fans are ready for the first ball.

Sources: The Kathmandu Post reporting published October 22–25, 2026. Tournament details and player signings are subject to official team and league announcements.